Lichen simplex chronicus is a skin problem that starts with a very itchy patch of skin. If you have been rubbing or scratching your skin a lot, the patch of skin can get thicker and may look like leather. For some people, the patch is also painful.
Some people find that stress makes their symptoms worse. Reducing stress, or finding ways to cope with it, may help reduce the itching.
Your doctor may try to find out what's causing your itchy skin. Causes can include conditions such as psoriasis or eczema. Or it may have started if you had an insect bite that was itchy.
To treat lichen simplex chronicus, your doctor will try to stop the itching. The doctor may prescribe prescription cream or ointment. The medicine stops the itching. But if scars have formed, they may fade but won't go away completely.
If another problem is causing the itching, your doctor may suggest separate treatment for that problem.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
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